Deep Creek Lake MD News and Local Resources: Daily Notes

February 19, 2024: The weather today will be sunny, with a slight chance of flurries– highs in the upper 30s and a low of 20. West winds of around 5 to 10 mph.

We’re coming up on the first-ever Community Dunk! Read more in our Cover Story here.

Espresso Alley Delivers!! With just a 5-drink minimum, Espresso Alley will bring the drink to you just call or text 301-746-2900.

The Maryland Park Service celebrated the graduation of 21 new State Park Rangers after a four-week training. The ceremony took place at Elk Neck State Park and NorthBay Adventure Camp.

Renowned astronomer Kevin Frederick will speak on telescopes and telescope-making, including his own 36″ Dobsonian, on March 15. Q&A session to follow. Sponsored by Cumberland Astronomy Club, free and open to the public.

Today marks the final day of the JTF Ice Rink at Grantsville Town Park! Don’t miss your chance to enjoy skating—be sure to plan your visit!

Show off those pearly whites! HART for Animals offers FREE dental screenings at the Bredel Clinic all month. Give your furry friends the gift of a healthy smile! Offer ends February 29!

Please note that all Ruth Enlow Library branches are closed for President’s Day 2024.

Celebrate Presidents’ Day with Ranger Noah on an easy-to-moderate 1.5-mile hike, discovering the significant roles of U.S. presidents in wildlife conservation during the Conservation’s Greatest Presidents Hike.

Friday, February 16, Saturday, February 17, and Sunday, February 18, 2024: The weather today will be partly sunny and breezy, with highs in the mid-30s and a low of 18. West winds of around 15 to 25 mph, with gusts up to 45 mph, diminishing to 10 to 15 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph in the afternoon. The chance of rain is 30%. Snow overnight. Saturday will be mostly cloudy. A chance of snow in the morning, with highs in the mid-20s and a low of 16. West winds of around 15 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph. The chance of snow is 50%. Sunday will be mostly sunny and windy, with highs in the lower 30s and a low of 23. Wind chill values are as low as 5 below.

The Deep Creek Watershed Foundation is revolutionizing water management in the Deep Creek Watershed through its innovative Water Budget Model and strategic partnerships. Check the linked article for more information.

Gracie Stewart, supported by her mom Crystal, donated blankets, backpacks, and clothing to Garrett County Health Department’s Early Care Programs for families with children aged birth to 5.

GCPS is collecting feedback on the proposed 2024-25 school year calendar until noon on March 4, 2024. Comments will be reviewed by the GCBOE.

At the February Board meeting, Mr. Paul Edwards, Director of Secondary Education, requested and received approval to set the last day for the Senior Class of 2024 on May 29, 2024. Graduation is scheduled for June 1, 2024, at the Garrett County Fairgrounds.

Legislation by Senator Mike McKay (SB837) and Delegate Jim Hinebaugh (HB910) aims to control nearshore grass growth in Deep Creek Lake. Hearings for these bills will be held in Annapolis on February 20 and 23. They require Brookfield Power to lower the lake for 30 days in winter to prevent grass growth.

St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Parish will have its 2024 Annual Fish Dinners every Friday during Lent, until March 22, from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM. Takeout is available starting at 4:00 PM.

Dr. Kevin Wilson discusses ‘Introduction to Stellar Spectroscopy’ today at Gira Center (Planetarium Building). Learn practical spectroscopy for amateur astronomers. Sponsored by the Cumberland Astronomy Club; free and open to all.

Winter Farmers Markets are held from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Mountain Fresh Pavilion on Saturday. Don’t miss out on a happenin’ Downtown Oakland this President’s Day weekend!

Deep Creek Pottery is offering special workshops on Saturday during President’s Day weekend! Create a ceramic succulent planter at 11:00 AM, a clay coil pot at 1:00 PM, and a ceramic mini mug at 3:00 PM. No tickets are required; simply show up, and they will guide you through the fun process!

Oakland’s Winter Fest returns this Saturday, from 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Enjoy kids’ activities, store specials, live music, the Winter Fest Wine Walk, and ice sculptures! Wine Walk starts at 11:00 AM; tickets are sold at the gazebo or online for $25.

Get ready for a thrilling Team Bingo Sunday at Mountain State Brewing, starting at 1:00 PM!

Experience a fun-filled outdoor weekend! Explore our schedule and local park activities for more details.

Thursday, February 15, 2024: The weather today will be mostly cloudy. Rain is likely in the afternoon. Breezy, with highs in the upper 40s and a low of 23. South winds of around 10 to 15 mph, increasing to southwest 20 to 25 mph, with gusts up to 35 mph in the afternoon. The chance of rain is 70%.

GCPS students will have an early dismissal on Friday, February 16, 2024, for staff development, and all schools and offices will be closed on Monday, February 19, 2024, for Presidents’ Day, resuming normal schedules on Tuesday, February 20, 2024. Check the linked article for more details on the schedule.

GCPS seeks applicants for the Superintendent’s Equity Advisory Board, meeting twice yearly, with the potential for additional meetings called by the Superintendent.

Support Meals on Wheels and Garrett County Senior Centers with our homemade soup sale! Pre-order your favorite soups, rolls, and cornbread by today and pick up your treats on February 29th!

Discover the joy of reading with the Reading Buddies program by HART for Animals every Thursday from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Enzo’s Library in their lobby. Bring your children, pick out books, and share stories with our lovable, adoptable dogs. And yes, you can keep the books too!

Come out and skate FOR FREE with Garrett County Health Department today for the final session of Skating into the New Year in Grantsville at JTF Ice Rink. Enjoy an evening skate from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

Test your knowledge while enjoying cold brews and good friends at the TEAM TRIVIA event happening every Thursday at 6:30 PM at Mountain State Brewing DCL.

Thursday is LOCALS’ NIGHT at Dutch’s At Silver Tree! Year-long residents, bring your receipts after dinner to get a gift card worth 20% of the subtotal for your next visit!

Tonight at MoonShadow, experience Pirates, Poets & Scribes! It’s an open poetry group where you can share your writings, discuss poetry, and enjoy your favorite poems.

Monday, February 12, 2024: The weather today will be cloudy, with patchy drizzle. Patchy fog. A chance of rain this afternoon, with highs in the upper 40s and a low of 30. West winds of around 5 mph, becoming southeast this afternoon. The chance of rain is 50%.

We have added 2 listings to our marketplace! Check out the American Heritage Pool Table, Pool Cue Rack, Spectator Chair & Accessories, and the Harvard Air Hockey Table under the sports equipment category.

A survey of 3,000 couples to discover America’s dream anniversary dinner destinations. Maryland’s Eastern Shore Waterfront Dining ranks 23rd among the top foodie destinations to celebrate anniversaries.

GCPS now accepting applications for kindergarten and Pre-K programs (ages 3-4) for 2024-25.

Due to expected bad weather, students bring home digital devices today for possible online learning tomorrow, February 13, 2024. Updates via media and alerts.

I’m excited to welcome a new advertiser! Fox’s Pizza Den Deep Creek Lake is a family-owned and operated establishment, committed to offering top-notch delivery and takeout services around Deep Creek Lake. Delivering to the top of Wisp, 219-N to Espresso Alley, near Garrett College and down Glendale Road. Call 240-442-5590!

HART for Animals is offering FREE dental screenings at the Bredel Clinic throughout February. Ensure your pets have a healthy smile! Free screenings end February 29, excluding dental cleaning and non-dental exams.

The Appalachian Farm & Food Alliance, Inc. will have its first meeting today at 6:00 PM at the Garrett County Health Department. It’s in the first-floor conference room and will be a hybrid meeting that will be recorded if you can’t make it in person.

Friday, February 9, Saturday, February 10, and Sunday, February 11, 2024: The weather today will be partly sunny. A chance of sprinkles in the morning, with highs in the mid-50s and a low of 47. Southwest winds of around 10 to 15 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph. Saturday will be raining likely, mainly in the morning, with highs in the mid-50s and a low of 37. West winds of around 15 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph. The chance of rain is 70%. Sunday will be mostly cloudy, with highs in the upper 40s and a low of 35.

Mark your calendars for an important meeting on Monday re: food security in Garrett County.

As of February 8, 2024, crews from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources have stocked more than 3,000 trout.

Today is National Pizza Day! Enjoy a large one-topping pizza for just $11 at Fox’s in Oakland (301-334-3212) or at Deep Creek Lake (240-442-5590)!

Maryland Governor Wes Moore delivered his State of the State address, outlining ambitious goals and calling for support from lawmakers. Key takeaways from his speech are summarized in “Five Takeaways from Maryland Gov. Wes Moore’s State of the State Speech.”

The 2024 Maryland Guide to Fishing and Crabbing is out now, offering comprehensive information for anglers. Available online and in print, it covers rules, licenses, tips, free fishing opportunities, and more.

A Blood Drive is happening today at the Garrett County Health Department in Oakland, from 11:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Please ensure you’ve scheduled your appointment.

Discover furs, feathers, and skulls with Ranger Noah at the Lake House this Saturday. Test your local wildlife knowledge in a casual, drop-in display during the two-hour program.

“Janet’s Planet: Unsung Genius, Heroines of Science” is this Saturday, February 10, at 2:00 PM in the Garrett College Performing Arts Center. This lecture highlights the untold stories of women in science, shedding light on their largely unrecognized genius. It showcases their incredible contributions and offers insights into the tenacity and determination behind their achievements.

This Saturday, experience the Salt and Water Snowflake Craft with Volunteer Naturalist Deb. Learn to create snowflakes with water and table salt in this engaging activity. It’s a come-and-go event, so drop by anytime during the two-hour window.

Ranger Noah leads the Mates for Life Hike this Sunday on the Ice House Trail. Discover native animal species that form lifelong bonds on this 1.5-mile, easy-to-moderate hike.

Sunday Funday at Deep Creek Pottery! Create a folded vase from clay. Pick your glaze colors and let them handle the rest!

Watch the game at The Greene Turtle’s Super Bowl Party, starting at 6:00 PM. Enjoy half-price loaded Tater Tots, Mozzarella Sticks, Bavarian Pretzel Sticks with Beer Cheese, and Flash-Fried Brussels Sprouts.

Enjoy an entertaining weekend! Check our schedule for more information.

Thursday, February 8, 2024: The weather today will be partly sunny, with highs in the lower 50s and a low of 39. South winds of around 5 to 10 mph.

Maryland ranks third in African American political engagement, according to a recent report during Black History Month and primary election season.

1 in 5 singles finds traditional first-date ideas outdated. The Vintage Train Ride on the nearby Western Maryland Scenic Railroad was voted the 6th most unique first date experience in America.

Spoil your Valentine at Wisp Resort with a 1-night stay, Learn-to Ski or Snowboard Package, and Valentine’s dinner at DC’s Bar + Restaurant. Sweet deal! Valid only on February 13 & 14, 2024.

Visit Enzo’s Library at HART for Animals every Thursday from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM for its Reading Buddies program! Enjoy reading to their adorable adoptable dogs and take home books from their collection.

Make sure you’ve registered for Garrett County Health Department’s free ice skating at Grantsville Park today!

Mountain State Brewing DCL plays TEAM TRIVIA every Thursday at 6:30 PM! Come test your knowledge over some cold brews & good friends.

Few slots are left for today’s Deep Creek Pottery’s Paint a Highland Cow event! Their skilled instructor, Beth Hilliker, will guide you through a Highland Cow Canvas Painting. Bring a beverage of choice and a snack to enjoy.”

Wednesday, February 7, 2024: The weather today will be sunny, with highs in the upper 40s and a low of 31. Southeast winds of around 5 mph.

Make your guess in the February “Where Am I?” contest! Congrats to George Thomas for winning January’s contest!

The first annual community dunk is coming up on Thursday, February 22. If you’re so inclined, my fundraising page is here and open for donations.

Do you have your tickets for Janet’s Planet: Unsung Genius, Heroines of Science yet? The show is coming up this weekend!

The Maryland Forest Service is offering a new grant program to distribute $4.8 million in federal funding towards urban and community forestry projects during the next four years.

The Garrett County Health Department is in its third year of a grant supporting the Garrett County Drug-Free Communities Coalition, aimed at preventing youth substance use. This funding, part of a national initiative, targets opioid, methamphetamine, and prescription drug misuse among 12-18-year-olds nationwide.

Visit HART for Animals on Wednesdays, 3:00-4:00 PM at Enzo’s Library in our lobby for our Reading Buddies program! Read its adorable adoptable dogs and take-home books.

Tuesday, February 6, 2024: The weather today will be sunny, with highs around 40 and a low of 25. East winds of around 5 to 10 mph.

GRMC and PVH President & CEO, Mark Boucot, recently joined Congress members and healthcare leaders at Capitol Hill to advocate for the bipartisan SAVE Act, focusing on safety for healthcare employees.

Congratulations to Kela Thomas, who was recently named the 2023 Patient Safety Star of the Year at Garrett Regional Medical Center.

Garrett County Health Department invites you to enjoy free ice skating at Grantsville Park on February 8. Register now for the 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM session: The event registration closes the day before at 5:00 PM. 

Blood Drive at Garrett County Health Department in Oakland is on February, from 11:30 AM – 5:00 PM. Book your appointment now!

The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce’s first 2024 Business Before Hours is on February 20. R. Andrew Bauer from the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond’s Baltimore branch will present an “Economic Forecast.” Details are in the linked article.

Catch Mean Girls at Garrett 8 Cinemas for its Tuesday Movie of the Week.

Enjoy 10 for $10 Tuesdays at The Greene Turtle (Deep Creek)! Get 10 Bone-In Wings for $10 and $2 Drafts.

Discover the great outdoors with Ranger Noah on Take A Hike Tuesday! Conquer a 4-mile trek, and then Ranger Noah and intern Maddy will have a Tree Talk Tuesday. Explore 16 labeled native trees on a 2-mile hike.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. Learn from Dr. Liza Villaruz today, a specialist at UPMC, about the basics and advanced techniques in treating lung cancer.

Monday, February 5, 2024: The weather today will be sunny, with highs in the mid-40s and a low of 24. East winds of around 5 to 10 mph.

Last January 26, 2024, GCPS administrators planned for the 6th-grade move to Broad Ford Elementary starting 2024-2025. More details on the transition, including program overview and schedule are coming soon.

The Town of Oakland is gearing up for its annual Winter Fest, slated for February 17, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and is searching for volunteers to assist with the highly successful Wine Walk.

Attend Dr. Kevin Wilson’s session on Introduction to Stellar Spectroscopy on February 16. He’ll explore practical and affordable spectroscopy applications for amateur astronomers. The event, sponsored by the Cumberland Astronomy Club, is free and open to the public.

February is National Pet Dental Health Month! HART for Animals is offering FREE dental screenings at the Bredel Clinic throughout the month. Ensure your pet has a healthy smile – act before February 29th!

Tonight at Friendsville Library: Children’s Starry Night Story Time! Bring your favorite stuffie or blanket for a delightful evening of stories, songs, and fun. Geared towards ages 2-5, but all children are welcome!

Friday, February 2, Saturday, February 3, and Sunday, February 4, 2024: The weather today will be cloudy. Scattered rain and snow showers in the morning. Patchy fog in the morning, with little or no snow accumulation–highs in the upper 30s and a low of 24. Northwest winds of around 10 to 15 mph. The chance of precipitation is 40%. Saturday will be sunny, with highs in the lower 40s and a low of 27. North winds of around 5 mph. Sunday will be sunny, with highs in the upper 40s and a low of 27.

The groundhog did not see his shadow so an early spring is on the way!

All-You-Can-Eat Buckwheat Pancake and Sausage Dinner today at 4:00 PM at Swanton Community Center (Groundhog Day)!

Free Ice Skate Day this Saturday from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Grantsville Town Park, sponsored by Somerset Trust Company.

Ranger Brian presents Introduction to Ice Safety and Ice Fishing on Saturday, a one-hour beginner’s program delving into the essential gear and safety considerations for a secure ice fishing adventure.

Deep Creek Pottery invites you to Sunday Funday: Create a Mosaic Frame! Craft your one-of-a-kind mosaic picture frame by choosing from a fantastic selection of tiles to enhance its beauty!

Get ready for a thrilling Team Bingo Sunday at Mountain State Brewing, starting at 1:00 PM!

Have a fun weekend with lots of entertainment! Check our schedule for more details.

Thursday, February 1, 2024: The weather today will be mostly cloudy in the morning, then becoming partly sunny. Patchy fog in the morning, with highs in the lower 40s and a low of 33. West winds of around 15 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph.

The Maryland State Department of Education is looking for organizations to host meal sites for the Summer Food Service Program, a USDA initiative offering free, nutritious meals to children and teens during school breaks.

Check out the Television Armoire for sale — the price has dropped from $350 to $150. Find it in the furniture category!

Save the date! Garrett County Health Fair & Family Fun Festival on April 6 at CARC, Garrett College, McHenry, from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM. Free community event promoting health awareness and resources for all ages.

St. Peter’s Ladies Auxiliary is raffling a “Cozy Couple’s Picnic Basket” for Valentine’s Day. Proceeds support their mission in the parish and community. Drawing on February 1.

Come out and strut your stuff for MoonShadow’s monthly Open Mic Night hosted by Kim and Ezra!

Mountain State Brewing DCL hosts Team Trrivia every Thursday at 6:30 PM! Test your knowledge while savoring cold brews with good friends.

Wednesday, January 31, 2024: The weather today will be cloudy. Scattered flurries in the morning. Patchy fog in the morning, with highs of 37 and a low of 30. Southeast winds of around 5 mph, becoming west in the afternoon. The chance of rain is 40%.

Maryland Department of Natural Resources crews stocked more than 2,000 trout as of January 30, 2024.

Don’t forget Lebanese Taverna is delivering to Deep Creek! Place your order TODAY for delivery FEB 2.

You’ll want to catch this: American Pickers season 25, episode 10 The Mile Long Yard Sale will be airing tonight at 9:00PM on the History Channel.

Here is the Record of River and Climatological Observations for January 2024.

Garrett County Chamber of Commerce introduces the Emerging Entrepreneur Award, seeking nominations for innovative newcomers shaping local economic growth. The award will be presented at the Annual Membership Meeting & Dinner on June 6, 2024.

Cozy up and make a difference! Join the homemade soup sale supporting Meals on Wheels and Garrett County Senior Centers. Pre-order your faves – soups, rolls, and cornbread – by February 15th. Don’t miss the warmth on February 29th when you pick up your delicious treats. Let’s stir up some joy together!

It’s Wedgie Wednesday at Fox’s Pizza Den and Want it Wednesday at Cashmere Clothing!

Step into a world of tails and tales every Wednesday from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Enzo’s Library for Reading Buddies! Pick a book, read to our cute dogs, and take the stories home with you. Enjoy a fun reading time with HART for Animals!

Tuesday, January 30, 2024: The weather today will be partly sunny, with highs around 40 and a low of 30. Southeast winds of around 5 to 10 mph.

Brenda Hartsell was named 2023 Employee of the Year at Garrett Regional Medical Center for exceptional care, persistence, and determination in ensuring a patient received essential treatment. Congratulations!

Andrew Fike has been officially appointed as the full-time president of the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce, starting January 25, 2024.

Nominations are open for the 2024 Heise Entrepreneurial Spirit Award by the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce. This award, dedicated to Helmuth & Evelyn Heise, recognizes local entrepreneurs for their impact on Garrett County’s economic growth. The award ceremony will take place at the Chamber’s Annual Membership Meeting & Dinner on June 6, 2024.

REMINDER: Garrett County Public Schools is closed on January 31, 2024, for Parent-Teacher Conferences from 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM. No classes for students on that day; the normal schedule resumes on February 1, 2024.

Experience a 4-mile Take A Hike Tuesday with Ranger Noah. Then, delve into Tree Talk Tuesday, a 2-mile hike with Ranger Noah and student intern Maddy. Learn about 16 labeled native trees in the park during this informative series on different tree species.

Enjoy 10 for $10 Tuesdays at The Greene Turtle (Deep Creek)! Grab 10 Bone In Wings for $10 and sip on $2 Drafts.

Learn about Primary Care in the UPMC Tele-Town Hall featuring Dr. David McAdams, an internal medicine specialist. Understand how to choose a primary care provider (PCP), the importance of routine care, and how PCPs manage chronic conditions in collaboration with UPMC specialists for optimal health.

Monday, January 29, 2024: The weather today will be cloudy. Scattered snow showers, mainly in the morning. Patchy fog. Little or no snow accumulation, with highs in the lower 30s and a low of 26. Northwest winds of around 15 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph. The chance of snow is 50%.

HART for Animals receives a 2024 grant from the Maryland Department of Agriculture for the Spay and Neuter Program, marking the ninth consecutive year. The grant will support HART’s Lifesaver program, offering 48 dogs and 105 cat spays/neuters. Low-income residents in Garrett and Allegany Counties can schedule appointments by calling 301-387-7729.

Maryland Forest Service offers a $4.8 million federal grant program for urban and community forestry projects. Apply by March 15 for awards ranging from $5,000 to $200,000 across three tracks. The second application window opens in the summer for flexibility.

Hey, kids! Catch Children’s Story Time at Grantsville Library every Monday morning starting at 11:00 AM. Enjoy an hour filled with stories, crafts, and activities aimed at nurturing a love for reading in young children.